The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched an investigation into claims that a local gin distillery was destroyed during airstrikes aimed at clusters of illegal crude oil refining camps in the creeks of Etche Local Government Area, Rivers State.
In a statement released on Friday, NAF spokesman Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the force has begun necessary verification procedures in accordance with its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP).
Ejodame reiterated NAF’s commitment to international operational standards, emphasizing the force’s dedication to protecting lives and property while upholding transparency and accountability.
He noted that the airstrikes in Rivers State successfully disrupted multiple illegal crude oil refining sites hidden deep within the Etche creeks as part of ongoing efforts to combat economic sabotage and environmental damage in the Niger Delta.
According to him, during the operation, NAF aircraft detected active illegal refining locations concealed in a heavily forested area near Owaza.
“The location, completely isolated and without visible human activity, was confirmed through credible intelligence and aerial surveillance.
“The aircrew engaged the targets with precision, neutralising the sites and halting ongoing illegal operations,” he said.